During the August 31st special called meeting of the Smith County Commission, former county attorney Branden Bellar was appointed to fill the vacant seat for Smith County General Sessions Judge.
Qualified candidates had the opportunity to submit their names for consideration for the empty seat. Before Monday night’s meeting, Branden Bellar submitted a letter expressing his interest in filling the vacant seat. No other names were submitted before or during the meeting. Branden Bellar was appointed by a unanimous vote of the twenty present commissioners.
The seat became empty after Judge Michael Collins won election as Circuit Court Judge for the 15th Judicial District in the special election for the seat in August. Judge Collins was sworn in for his new role on the afternoon of August 31st. As such, Branden Bellar was sworn into office by County Mayor Jeff Mason following the meeting and will begin serving immediately.
